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Volume 49, Number 11, Published on 03/11/1996

News

Council, staff, commissions consider St. William pu

hospital funds

pettingill

New planning commissioner, bakery seating approved

El Camino Hospital directors to continue funding community organizations

Town Crier Staff Reporter

Pettingill appointed Kaiser hospital executive

LAH must distribute $260,000 in block grant funds

People

Obituaries

<H2>Mary Rossi-Lawrence</H2>Mary Rossi-Lawrence, a native of West Virginia, died March 4 at Stanford Health Services. She was 87.A homemaker for 65 years, she is survived by a large family, and family contact is the son, John Rossi. Private family services were held under the direction of the Spangler Mortuaries in Mountain View. <H2>Hillary McArthur</H2>Hillary McArthur died at the Forum Healthcare Center in Cupertino Feb. 13. She was 82.Services will be held Friday at 10:00 a.m. at the Alta Mesa Memorial Park, 695 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto. A native of San Diego and an office clerk at La Canada newspapers, she is survived by her sons, Cameron McArthur of San Jose and Gerry Sgambati , and a nephew, Steve Furniss of Kneeland, Calif.

Obituaries

H. Schyler Foster, a resident of Washington, D. C., died March 2

Community

Arts in the area

Panel to discuss racism in forum at Foothill Colleg

In The Past...

50 years ago in the Los Altos NewsAccording to the March 14, 1946 edition of the Los Altos News, the Allied Arts Guild was the new owner of the picturesque site on Arbor Road and San Francisquito Creek in Menlo Park, where its volunteers had worked since 1936 in support of the Stanford Convalescent Home for Children. The building and grounds were sold to them by the Garfield Merner family at a price exceeding $75,000.The property, a part of the original land grant made to Don Jose Arquello in the early 1800s, had been purchased by the Merners in 1930 and then leased to the Senior Auxiliary Board. (Today, the early California-type buildings and landscaped gardens attract many visitors each year. Profits from the Allied Arts lunch rooms and gift shop benefit the Lucille Salter Packard Children¹s Hospital at Stanford.)Nationwide, the Parent-Teacher¹s Association was celebrating the 49th anniversary of its origin. Representatives of every state met in Washington, D.C., and laid the foundation of what became the Congress of Parents and Teachers. At its meeting on March 5, 1946, the local PTA elected officers for the 1946-47 school year. Those chosen to lead the association of more than 400 members were: Mrs. Herbert Sutton, president; Mrs. R.E. Erving, first vice president; Mrs. Virginia Heaslet, second vice president; Mrs. John Weber, secretary; Mrs. E. H. Pratt, treasurer; Mrs. Marguerite Nash, financial secretary; Mrs. George McKeeman, historian; and Ardis Egan, auditor. ­Compiled by Ellen Shaw and the Los Altos History House Association

Los Altos sculpture competition under way

Atticus author makes appearance at Los Altos book s

Community Briefs

Rec Departmentcalendars readyThe Los Altos Recreation Department catalogs of spring courses are in the mail. They may also be picked up at the libraries, City Hall and at the Rec Center. Walk-in registration begins March 25 and classes begin in April. Some classes for youth include bake a cake and decorate; beginning watercolor and drawing, Los Altos Youth Theatre auditions for ³Father of the Bride² and the summer musical ³Big River.²Teen/adult classes include organizing: paper management; pop piano workshop; the smart home buying workshop; and money, power and love: personal financial management.For more information, call 941-0950, ext. 300.League-A-Thonfund-raiserThe League of Women Voters of the Los Altos-Mountain View area will hold its League-A-Thon fund-raiser today.Community donations assist the league in providing voter education through candidates forums, election hotlines, public meetings on issues and pulbications such as ³Facts For Voters.²Supporters can send donation checks to the League of Women Voters of the Los Altos-Mountain View Area, P.O. Box 1384, Los Altos 94023.

St. Patrick¹s Day, more than green beer and a pub c

Fly fishing author to speak at Hidden Villa benefit

Expert offers seniors tips for cutting fat from die

CSMA offers financial assistance for music lessons

Irish cultural activities in March

El Camino Hospital Auxiliary helps keep the hospita

Rotary speaker covers life in the emergency room

Los Altos Online moving its web site

Comments or suggestions? You can reach me through voice mail at 948-9000 ext. 325 or e-mail: james@towncrier.batnet.com

Just for kids: A page of their own

Celebrity Cruises offers the newest spa at sea

Births

VleisidesA daughter was born Feb. 3 to Heidi and Nick Vleisides of Mountain View at Stanford University Medical Center.

March Chefs Who Care at Los Altos Bar and Grill

Run with the ancients and drink wine with contempor

Heavy Los Altos artist participation in Open Studio

Los Altos Weather

Measured rainfall (in inches) March 1 - trace; March 3 -.08; March 4 - .52; March 5 -. 32 Total rainfall to date this season 15. 02Rainfall to date last year 16. 90(Rain season 7-1 to 6-30)

League of Women Voters offers forums for March 26 election

Want to learn more about the candidates and issues in the March 26 election?The League of Women Voters is sponsoring two kinds of events to assist votersin making their choices.A League-sponsored Candidates Forum is set for 7-9 p.m. Thursday at MountainView City Hall, 500 Castro St. Candidates for three offices will be represented:the 11th state Senatorial district; Santa Clara Country Supervisor seat 5;and Santa Clara Valley Water District, seat 5.The League also is sponsoringa pro-and-con forum on the state propositions, set for 7:30-9:30 p.m. March20 in the Hal Brady Room of Hillview Community Center, 97 Hillview Ave.,Los Altos. For more information, call 941-4846.League members will presentanalysis, of each of the 12 state measures.The state senate contest is aspecial election begin held to fill the seat left vacant when Tom Campbellwon the election last year replacing Norman Mineta in the U.S. House ofRepresentatives. The two candidates are Patrick Shannon, republican, andByron Sher, democrat.Three candidates are vying to become the supervisor from Santa Clara CountryBoard of Supervisors District #5: Barbara Koppel, Mark O¹Connor, andJoe Simitian.Marge Bruno, Libby Lucas, and Gregory Zlotnick each want to serve on theSanta Clara Country Water District Board for the fifth district.Each candidate will present a prepared statement, then answer questionsfrom the audience. A ³Voters Guide² that contains short biographicalsketches and answers to specific questions by each of the candidates forthe offices is available. Paper versions can be found at the meeting andat some libraries. Look for the online version in the League of Women Votersof Los Altos-Mountain View home page athttp://www.losaltosonline.com/lwv

Morning Forum speaker discusses impacts of Bosnian

Just Say Yes! to volunteering at the YMCA

arts calendar

book signing

Mountain View announces 24-hour Moffett Field hotli

Would-be trail builders ¯ Hidden Villa calls

El Camino Hospital Auxiliary helps keep the hospita

Run with the ancients and drink wine with contempor

Schools

Folk singers highlight free CSMA family concert

Oak students participate in art project with adults

Kings Academy students find excelling at sports and

School Briefs

Foothill wind ensembleto perform concertThe 60-member Foothill College Symphonic Wind Ensemble will perform their annual winter band concert at 2:30 p.m. March 17 in the Robert C. Smithwick Theatre at Foothill College. The program, under the direction of David B. Adams, will include, Midway March by John Williams; Manin Veen by Haydn Wood; Lincolnshire Posy by Percy Grainger; Yankee Doodle by Morton Gould; March, Opus 99 by Serge Prokofieff; Satiric Dances by Norman Dello Joio and 1812 Overture by P.I. Tchiakovsky.Tickets are $5 for adults and $4 for students and senior citizens. Parking is $1. For more information, call 969-0191.

Hold the phone for Foothill College winter musical

Honor Roll - Los Altos High School

Jennifer AllooDarya AnsariChris BagleyAshleigh BarretoPete BjorklundRebecca BostwickCristo CastilloJinwha ChoiKasey ClarkAndrew CohenJulie CollinsonPeter DinhKathy DunnDavid ElliottPeter EllsworthMark Adrian FaustinoAmanda FleischmanJayme FulfordGraciela GarciaMaria GarciaStephen GardnerHilary HeddenBrian HenryTanya HixsonMarie HolstTamika HurdLaura HwangJoseph JaquetteJudith JimenezBryan JonesMatthew JosephBenjamin KahnJonathan KarlinKathy KelemenPeter KhairolomourGrace KlineJessica KlinkeJason KneeboneKira KwanMelissa LanderLinda LindtnerovaEdward LiouCecilia MakPik(Maggie) MakErik MannJennifer MarshallLauren McfallChad McmillsNoble MillieChristina NietoInna PortnovaJaleh PourmandJoyce ReidAndreas RiterJacqueline RouxNoelle RouxBrian RutkinKevin SearlesDavid ShurAlex ShyeJim StapletonAnnemarie StoudtHuei-Hsien SuTrista TollesKatie TuttleRabindra WatsonBenjamin WilsonKimberly WoodmanHigh Honors Students - Los Altos High School1st Semester

Kids create energy audit for home

Dr. William Coulson to speak in Los Altos

CSMA offers April vacation Arts & Music Day Camp

bullis computers

euphrat

Sports

J.D. Simpson

Sports Shorts

FLYIN¹ HIGH: The 12th annual Golden Eagle Summer Sports Camp takes flight from June 17 to Aug. 2 at Springer School in Mountain View. The camp ­ run by physical-education specialists Monica and Nelson Lodge ­ is open to children ages 5-14 and features soccer, softball, gymnastics, Rollerblading hockey, chess, arts and crafts and more. Cost per week is $125 for regular camp hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours of 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 960-8857 or 941-7580.

all-leaguers

baseball.html

J.D. Simpson

NorCal basketball playoffs

Boys prep tennis

Pinewood The Panthers, five-time defending Private Schools Athletic League champs, are off to a 3-0 start ­ and that¹s without the services of five of their best netters.³Our strength is depth,² said 15-year coach Bill Shine, who will be leaving Pinewood for Menlo School after the season. Some of those players responsible for Pinewood¹s great start are Eliesa Vaka, Jack Helu, Neil Lett and Jonathan Chu. Vaka ­ who was undefeated at No. 5 singles last year ­ is twice the player this time out thanks to his recent stint at a tennis academy in Florida, where he played every day for six hours. Shine added that teammates call Vaka ³Silk,² because he¹s so smooth on the court.As for Helu, he can proudly claim the title as the fastest server in the Bay Area. In a recent Sybase Open all-ages contest, the 6-foot-4, 220-pounder blasted a 121-mile serve and earned himself $500. ³When he cranks up a couple serves, the kids on the other side are literally scared,² Shine said.Back this week from a knee injury is Shine¹s biggest recent find ­ Scotty Scott. Touted as the best 17-year-old in the country, he is strong on the baseline and aspires to contribute to Stanford University¹s winning tradition. ³He has no weaknesses. I haven¹t seen a player like him in this area for a while,² Shine said.Other top singles players officially back on the tennis court ­ via the basketball gym ­ are Lund Smith and Jeff Schram. Smith should be ready from the get-go, since he¹s been playing four days a week and competing in tournaments; Schram hasn¹t played for a couple months, but will be in top form in a few weeks, Shine said.Also clawing their way onto the court for the Panthers are Cornell Wilder, Bryan Granum, John Gallagher and Tim Wang.

Girls NorCal basketball playoffs

All-League Honors

BOYS SOCCERSanta Clara Valley Athletic League - El CaminoMost valuable defender: Justin UsherFirst team: Mike Dayem, Jonathan Kaye, Greg Mitchell, Brian RutkinSecond team: Matt Accola, Stephen Gardner

Prep baseball

St. FrancisEntering his 23rd year as skipper of the Lancers, Chris Bradford describes his job as ³the best around.² And the same could be said of this season¹s squad.Returning an abundance of talent from last year¹s 28-6 Central Coast Section championship team, St. Francis will again make a run at the crown. But first, the Lancers must make sure they take care of business in the always competitive West Catholic Athletic League.St. Francis finished third in the talent-laden WCAL last year, showing why the league is one of the toughest in the CCS. ³With Bellarmine, Serra and others, it¹s going to be a real good year in the WCAL,² Bradford said. Bradford has five returning starters: seniors Andrew Watt in center field, David Watts at shortstop, Bryan Clark in left field, Bryan Osorio at catcher and John Gall at pitcher and third base. Senior Paul Davis (second base-third base), junior Robbie Poole (second base) and gigantic sophomore Steve Correa (6-6, 230 first baseman) round out a line up that will give Bradford a mixture of line drives and long balls.Gall, Elliott Wheeler, Sean Roy, Tim Cross and Jason Luker will hurl from the hill. ³We¹re going to spread our pitching around,² said Bradford, who lost two key starters to graduation.If there is one concern for Bradford, it¹s defense. ³Pitching and hitting go up and down, but we¹ve got to play consistent defense,² he said.St. Francis was ranked 14th in Baseball America¹s preseason poll for the entire country and already has leaped out to a 6-1 start. The Lancers opened up WCAL play yesterday at Sacred Heart Cathedral and host Serra at 3:30 p.m. tomorrow.Bradford, who also won CCS titles in 1981 and 1983, expects his Lancers to challenge for the WCAL crown. And with the talent he has, another CCS championship is not out of the question.

Sports Shorts

FLYIN¹ HIGH: The 12th annual Golden Eagle Summer Sports Camp takes flight from June 17 to Aug. 2 at Springer School in Mountain View. The camp ­ run by physical-education specialists Monica and Nelson Lodge ­ is open to children ages 5-14 and features soccer, softball, gymnastics, Rollerblading hockey, chess, arts and crafts and more. Cost per week is $125 for regular camp hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours of 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 960-8857 or 941-7580.

Business & Real Estate

Chamber looking for new director

Business Briefs

Chamber mixerat 1st NationwideThe next Los Altos Chamber of Commerce mixer is scheduled for 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday at 1st Nationwide Bank, the former San Francisco Federal, at 350 S. San Antonio Road, in downtown Los Altos. The mixer will also serve as a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new bank. The Epicurean Deli of Los Altos will provide refreshments.For more information, call the Chamber at 948-1455.

How to check the house you want to buy ­ before cal

Transactions - Week of March 6

LOS ALTOS TOTAL SALES: 8LOWEST SALES PRICE: $ 490,000.00HIGHEST SALES PRICE: $ 1,150,000.00AVERAGE SALES PRICE: $ 741,250.00

Business Briefs

Home Inspection

Weekly Special

THRIFTY TIPS

WHEN IN IRELANDCalendar of Events & Festivals: * April: Cork International Choral Festival. * May: Punchestown Racecourse International; Fleadh Nua, traditional musical festival, Ennis Co. Clare. * June: Musical Festival in Great Irish Houses; Budweiser Irish Derby, Co. Kildare. * July: Cobh International Folk Dance Festival; Galway Arts Festival; Galway Races. * August: International Rose of Tralee Festival, Co. Kerry; Dublin Horse Show; * September: Clarenbridge Oyster Festival, Co. Galway; Lisdoonvarna Folk Festival, Co. Clare. * October: Wesford Opera Festival; Cork Jazz Festival.

RESTAURATEURS OF THE WEEK

Type of business.Polish/American restaurant presenting a new and creative menu serving such specialties as Rack of Lamb, Hunter Goulash, Combination Plate, etc.

RECIPES OF THE WEEK

2 cups cornmeal3 tablespoons sugar1 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon baking powder1/4 teaspoon baking soda2 cups sourdough starter2 eggs1/4 cup melted butter or margarineMETHOD:Preheat oven to 425º. Combine the cornmeal, sugar, salt, baking powder, and soda in a mixing bowl, stirring until all ingredients are blended. In a separate bowl, mix the starter, eggs, and butter until smooth. Add starter mixture to the cornmeal mixture, beating quickly until free of lumps. Grease an 8x12² pan thoroughly. Spread cornmeal mixture evenly in prepared pan. Bake in preheated over 30 to 35 minutes. Serve immediately.

FAMOUS IRISH COCKTAILS

IRISH RICKEYJuice of 1/2 LimeCarbonated Water1 1/2 oz. Irish WhiskeyPour into highball glass over ice cubes. Stir. Add a piece of lime.

HAPPENINGS

RECIPES OF THE WEEK

2 pounds boneless shoulder of lamb in 1 1/2-inch cubes2 tablespoons shortening1 cup 1/2-inch carrot slices1 cup cubed white turnip1 potato, peeled and cubed1 onion, slicedSalt to tasteFreshly ground pepperMETHOD:Take care to trim off most of the lamb fat. Melt the shortening in a heavy pot, add the lamb cubes, and brown them well on all sides. Stand back while you pour 2 cups of boiling water over the lamb - it will sizzle and sputter. Cover and simmer for 1 hour. Add the carrot, turnip, potatoes, onion, salt and pepper, cover, and simmer 30 minutes more. Taste, correct for seasoning, and serve.

BANQUETS ABOUND ALL OVER IRELAND

TOUCH IRELAND AND BE BLESSED

HAPPENINGS

1993 ZINFANDEL, BARRICIAKenwood Vineyards began vineyard designating its Barricia Zinfandel because of the rich, opulent flavor of the fruit harvested from this near 100-year-old vineyard. The vineyard sits on warm underground springs that encourage early, even ripening.The old, head pruned Zinfandel vines at Barricia were interplanted with a small amount of Petite Sirah and Carignane that enhance the flavors of the wine. Kenwood began farming the low yielding Barricia Vineyard in 1993. The fruit was harvested at an optimum 24ºBrix in mid-September. Following harvest, the wine was aged in a combination of French and American oak for fifteen months. After aging, the wine underwent minimal filtering and was left unfined.The rich jammy wine has concentrated black cherry and raspberry flavors with a slightly spicy, smooth finish. This wine is ideal with steak and lamb or chocolate desserts and I found it truly outstanding.

FAMILY ATTRACTIONS

Ireland and youth have always been synonymous. The ancient Celts called this called this mystic land Tir na nÓg, the Land of Youth, and legendary heroes came to Ireland to be renewed and rejuvenated.Today the young and young-at-heart are still drawn to this small island for many reasons, starting with the fact that close to half to the Irish population is under the age of 25. With such a youthful atmosphere, it¹s no wonder that Ireland is geared to young people and their needs, making it an ideal vacation destination for family travel.The Irish people themselves take their children everywhere - to festivals and local markets, sporting events and seaside resorts and traditional country pubs. Visiting children, parents, and grandparents fit right in with the Irish lifestyle of two and three generations enjoying indoor and outdoor activities together.Throughout Ireland¹s 32 counties, sightseeing attractions welcome families with admission concessions for children, usually half-price or less, or inclusive family rates for parents and two or more children. In recent years, many long-standing attractions have been updated and new sites opened, with a view to offering ³hands-on² and ³action-packed² experiences that appeal to kids.Indoor monorail-style rides transport kids and their parents back to medieval times at Kerry the Kingdom in Tralee, and at Knight Ride in Carrickfergus, County Antrim. Families can also stroll amid a Viking atmosphere at Dublinia in Dublin City or trace Gulliver¹s travels in the Land of Lilliput at Armagh.Many attractions bring Irish history, literature, and culture to life. Lend a hand at Blennerville, County Kerry, as grain is milled with Ireland¹s largest working windmill, built in 1800. Board a narrow-gage railway at Shannonbridge, County Offaly, for an in-depth tour of Ireland¹s natural boglands, with a chance to stop and cut some peat. Or feel what it was like to live in the Ireland of centuries past by visiting authentically recreated folk villages and museums at Bunratty, Glencolumbkille, Knock, Glenbeigh, Cashel, and Wexford, or perhaps Muckross Traditional Farms in Killarney, Ulster Folk and Transport Museum near Belfast, or the Ulster-American Folk Park at Omagh. The remote Blasket Centre ad Dunquin, County Kerry, helps families to understand the challenges and isolation of life on the islands. At the Battle of Aughrim Centre in County Galway, kids can release their energies and learn a lot as they reenact the famous 1691 battle that is considered the Gettysburg of Ireland.The Irish countryside lends itself to a variety of attractions that offer natural learning experiences for parents and children to share. You can swim with a dolphin off the coast of Dingle, join hands around a 1,000-year-old oak tree with a 32-foot circumference at Tuamgraney, County Clare, or stroll through the great cliff-top Dunluce Castle in County Antrim. More than 50 farms throughout the country offer tours and rides around their acreage. Children take unique delight in holding a newborn chick or bottle-feeding baby lambs. Ireland also has three great zoos for close-up encounters with exotic animals: Dublin¹s Zoo, the third-oldest in Europe; Fota Wildlife Park at Cork; and the Zoo at Westport House in County Mayo.Meals in Ireland are kid-friendly, with a variety of informal self-service eateries and coffee shops in both cities and country towns. Many of the well-known international chains offer fast-food and inexpensive meals for children, and hotel dining rooms and local restaurants usually have children¹s menus.Patricia Tunison Preston is a freelance writer and the author of Reflections of Ireland.

Banquets abound

Family Attractions

THRIFTY TIPS

WHEN IN IRELANDCalendar of Events & Festivals: * April: Cork International Choral Festival. * May: Punchestown Racecourse International; Fleadh Nua, traditional musical festival, Ennis Co. Clare. * June: Musical Festival in Great Irish Houses; Budweiser Irish Derby, Co. Kildare. * July: Cobh International Folk Dance Festival; Galway Arts Festival; Galway Races. * August: International Rose of Tralee Festival, Co. Kerry; Dublin Horse Show; * September: Clarenbridge Oyster Festival, Co. Galway; Lisdoonvarna Folk Festival, Co. Clare. * October: Wesford Opera Festival; Cork Jazz Festival.

RECIPES OF THE WEEK

2 cups cornmeal3 tablespoons sugar1 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon baking powder1/4 teaspoon baking soda2 cups sourdough starter2 eggs1/4 cup melted butter or margarineMETHOD:Preheat oven to 425º. Combine the cornmeal, sugar, salt, baking powder, and soda in a mixing bowl, stirring until all ingredients are blended. In a separate bowl, mix the starter, eggs, and butter until smooth. Add starter mixture to the cornmeal mixture, beating quickly until free of lumps. Grease an 8x12² pan thoroughly. Spread cornmeal mixture evenly in prepared pan. Bake in preheated over 30 to 35 minutes. Serve immediately.

RESTAURATEURS OF THE WEEK

Type of business.Polish/American restaurant presenting a new and creative menu serving such specialties as Rack of Lamb, Hunter Goulash, Combination Plate, etc.

HAPPENINGS

BANQUETS ABOUND ALL OVER IRELAND

RECIPES OF THE WEEK

2 pounds boneless shoulder of lamb in 1 1/2-inch cubes2 tablespoons shortening1 cup 1/2-inch carrot slices1 cup cubed white turnip1 potato, peeled and cubed1 onion, slicedSalt to tasteFreshly ground pepperMETHOD:Take care to trim off most of the lamb fat. Melt the shortening in a heavy pot, add the lamb cubes, and brown them well on all sides. Stand back while you pour 2 cups of boiling water over the lamb - it will sizzle and sputter. Cover and simmer for 1 hour. Add the carrot, turnip, potatoes, onion, salt and pepper, cover, and simmer 30 minutes more. Taste, correct for seasoning, and serve.

TOUCH IRELAND AND BE BLESSED

HAPPENINGS

1993 ZINFANDEL, BARRICIAKenwood Vineyards began vineyard designating its Barricia Zinfandel because of the rich, opulent flavor of the fruit harvested from this near 100-year-old vineyard. The vineyard sits on warm underground springs that encourage early, even ripening.The old, head pruned Zinfandel vines at Barricia were interplanted with a small amount of Petite Sirah and Carignane that enhance the flavors of the wine. Kenwood began farming the low yielding Barricia Vineyard in 1993. The fruit was harvested at an optimum 24ºBrix in mid-September. Following harvest, the wine was aged in a combination of French and American oak for fifteen months. After aging, the wine underwent minimal filtering and was left unfined.The rich jammy wine has concentrated black cherry and raspberry flavors with a slightly spicy, smooth finish. This wine is ideal with steak and lamb or chocolate desserts and I found it truly outstanding.

FAMILY ATTRACTIONS

Ireland and youth have always been synonymous. The ancient Celts called this called this mystic land Tir na nÓg, the Land of Youth, and legendary heroes came to Ireland to be renewed and rejuvenated.Today the young and young-at-heart are still drawn to this small island for many reasons, starting with the fact that close to half to the Irish population is under the age of 25. With such a youthful atmosphere, it¹s no wonder that Ireland is geared to young people and their needs, making it an ideal vacation destination for family travel.The Irish people themselves take their children everywhere - to festivals and local markets, sporting events and seaside resorts and traditional country pubs. Visiting children, parents, and grandparents fit right in with the Irish lifestyle of two and three generations enjoying indoor and outdoor activities together.Throughout Ireland¹s 32 counties, sightseeing attractions welcome families with admission concessions for children, usually half-price or less, or inclusive family rates for parents and two or more children. In recent years, many long-standing attractions have been updated and new sites opened, with a view to offering ³hands-on² and ³action-packed² experiences that appeal to kids.Indoor monorail-style rides transport kids and their parents back to medieval times at Kerry the Kingdom in Tralee, and at Knight Ride in Carrickfergus, County Antrim. Families can also stroll amid a Viking atmosphere at Dublinia in Dublin City or trace Gulliver¹s travels in the Land of Lilliput at Armagh.Many attractions bring Irish history, literature, and culture to life. Lend a hand at Blennerville, County Kerry, as grain is milled with Ireland¹s largest working windmill, built in 1800. Board a narrow-gage railway at Shannonbridge, County Offaly, for an in-depth tour of Ireland¹s natural boglands, with a chance to stop and cut some peat. Or feel what it was like to live in the Ireland of centuries past by visiting authentically recreated folk villages and museums at Bunratty, Glencolumbkille, Knock, Glenbeigh, Cashel, and Wexford, or perhaps Muckross Traditional Farms in Killarney, Ulster Folk and Transport Museum near Belfast, or the Ulster-American Folk Park at Omagh. The remote Blasket Centre ad Dunquin, County Kerry, helps families to understand the challenges and isolation of life on the islands. At the Battle of Aughrim Centre in County Galway, kids can release their energies and learn a lot as they reenact the famous 1691 battle that is considered the Gettysburg of Ireland.The Irish countryside lends itself to a variety of attractions that offer natural learning experiences for parents and children to share. You can swim with a dolphin off the coast of Dingle, join hands around a 1,000-year-old oak tree with a 32-foot circumference at Tuamgraney, County Clare, or stroll through the great cliff-top Dunluce Castle in County Antrim. More than 50 farms throughout the country offer tours and rides around their acreage. Children take unique delight in holding a newborn chick or bottle-feeding baby lambs. Ireland also has three great zoos for close-up encounters with exotic animals: Dublin¹s Zoo, the third-oldest in Europe; Fota Wildlife Park at Cork; and the Zoo at Westport House in County Mayo.Meals in Ireland are kid-friendly, with a variety of informal self-service eateries and coffee shops in both cities and country towns. Many of the well-known international chains offer fast-food and inexpensive meals for children, and hotel dining rooms and local restaurants usually have children¹s menus.Patricia Tunison Preston is a freelance writer and the author of Reflections of Ireland.

Foothill's Travelprogram

Pacific Education Group

Say bon voyage to work and sail on a new travel car

The Princeton Review for Continuing Ed

If you¹re thinking about going back to school, chances are you¹ll need to take a test ­ the GRE for graduate school, the LSAT for law school, the MCAT for medical school or the GMAT for business school.³The longer you¹re out of school, the more important the scores,² Mariah Youngkin said. She is director of graduate programs at the Princeton Review in Palo Alto which gives courses to prepare students for taking entrance exams.³Your GPA (grade point average) is less important the longer you¹re out of school,² Youngkin said. ³You may be a different person who has matured² since your student days.The most popular courses right now at the Princeton Review are for students preparing for the GMAT (graduate management admissions test). These students tend to be in their late 20s, older than most students taking the other graduate tests. Some students are in their 30s and 40s.Those who have been out of school 10 years or more are ³apologetic at first,² said Pam Hirsch, executive director and owner of the Princeton Review franchise in Palo Alto. ³But, they are very serious and make up some of our best students.²Many engineering students are going go back to school for an MBA, Youngkin said. They tend to do well on the math portion of the test. But, for many, she said, English is not a first language so the verbal portion of the test poses hurdles. The test costs $795. ³We offer a satisfaction guarantee,² Youngkin said. ³If a student is not satisfied, we¹ll work with them for a year to get their scores up to where they want. About 15 to 20 percent come back to work with us.²About two thirds of the Princeton Review clients are high school students who take the six week course for SAT preparation.³We have a 100 point guarantee,² Hirsch said. If a student doesn¹t score 100 or more points above their PSAT or previous SAT, they may take a refresher course at no charge.Hirsch said about 80 percent are happy with their scores. The average increase is 137 points.Costs for the tests range from $675 for the SAT to $895 for the MCAT.The Princeton Review is located in Palo Alto, 2390 El Camino Real, Suite 210.For more information, call 843-0968.

Pacific Education Group

With advanced technology and stronger educational skills needed to be competitive in the work force of the 90's many are finding it hard to make the transition from high school or working life to the life of higher education.What school offers the classes you need? What tests have to be taken and how do you prepare for them? How do you juggle family, career and school all at the same time? The Pacific Educational Group, Inc. (PEG) in Palo Alto has the answer to these difficult questions.PEG equips students with the tools needed for a successful transition to the next level of their education. The group, created in 1992, offers a wide range of admissions counselling, educational planning services, instructional support, special education programs, standardized test preparation programs, and college tours."We work with students right out of high school and adults returning to school," said Chris Roe, managing director and co-founder of PEG. "It's hard to know what schools will accept what and we try to help."Aiding students to identify their talents and interests the PEG staff is able to find a secondary, college and graduate/professional school environment to best fit the client's intellectual, emotional and social needs according to Roe. Some of the information provided identifies different schools and its individual admission process. "Many students don't know how to request information or what to send in with their applications when applying for college," Roe said. "That can make them frustrated."Standardized testing strategies and the application process counseling help clients understand what they need to do. One-on-one tutoring in a large range of academic subjects, stadardized tests, time management techniques and study skills is also offered. The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) allows students to take a test and possibly receive college credit for taking, and passing, the test."We help through the CLEP program to find programs that will accept CLEP credits," he said. "The staff helps the student prepare for the test as well."Any students who have learning difficulties or disabilities can take advantage of PEG's special education programs. These programs offer comprehensive support services such as parent consultations, educational evaluations, individualized remedial instruction, consultation with teachers and professionals, and identification of appropriate post-secondary institutions. Janet Collins is the director of the special education program at PEG and has extensive experience in working with children and adults with special needs.PEG is the only group in the Bay Area to use the On To College (OTC) test preparation method. According to the U.S. Educational and Instruction Survey of 1995 the OTC methods have a 78 percent success rate in rising student's PSAT, SAT and GRE examinations. There are five full-time staff members and aproximately 15 instructors from the surrounding community who work part-time.Clients are charged on an hourly basis and the rate can range from $100 to $125 per hour depending on the individual needs of the client. There are two steps to the group's program, according to Roe; the guidance and counseling process can take anywhere from 3 to 10 hours total and test preparation (if client participates in that portion) can take 5 to 20 hours. Not all students use both steps of the process."We design individual programs for each student." Roe said. "The student schedules time with a counselor that fits with their schedule."In four years of operation, PEG has had a successful rate of getting students into a higher education program."All the people we've worked with have gotten into a college or higher education program," Roe said.For more information on the PEG programs call (415) 321-6092.

Golden Gate University

The professional world of business is ever-changing and those who want to keep in-step need to continually re-educate themselves on the latest trends and ideas. Golden Gate University (GGU), Los Altos campus, is the ideal setting to help working professionals maintain their effectiveness.GGU is the third largest private university in California and has approximately 1,000 evening working students. The school's slogan is "Welcome to the Real World"."These words are more than a slogan, they represent a commitment that stretches back to 1853, when we first began educating the real San Francisco '49ers," said Thomas M. Stauffer, president of GGU. "We no longer offer classes in gold assaying but we do provide career oriented men and women with high-quality, relevant, practical education that will serve them well today and in the years ahead."GGU has been serving the Bay Area since 1901 and the Los Altos campus has been in operation for 14 years. Located at 5050 El Camino Real, between Rengstorff and San Antonio Road, the Los Altos campus houses 11 classrooms, including a computer classroom and a computer lab. There is also a bookstore and a student lounge along with a bookstore. The reference library is connected to the University's main libraries in San Francisco, enabling students to access their business collection without leaving the South Bay. Free off-street parking is available for students as well.The school year is set up with three 15-week trimesters and classes are scheduled to meet one evening a week or in a weekend intensive session. This is to accommodate students who have a busy work schedule and family commitments. All courses can be taken at any of the GGU campus sites which include Monterey, San Francisco and Walnut Creek.Graduate and undergraduate degree and certificates are available in areas such as accounting, marketing, human resource management, and many more. "A certificate is about a quarter of a degree," said John Fyfe, provost of the Los Altos campus. "A certificate can be earned with four to six classes. A degree class range is anywhere from 12 to 20."Another unique characteristic of the school is the case-study method of instruction and the practitioner-faculty concept. The case-study method consists of the students producing written examples of real situations which require the students and instructors to apply what is taught in class to the real-life company situation and critique what has been done. The practitioner-faculty concept is that none of the instructors are full-time; they are business people working for a living and teaching students what they do during the day."It's (method of instruction) what were known for," Fyfe said. "We aim for working adults to get useful instruction. We are not a degree factory. I think that is what our appeal is."Summer session registration begins on April 15 and summer classes begin on May 6. There are three term lengths to choose from, 15, 12 and 5 week sessions. Summer undergraduate tuition is $260, graduate (except tax and telecommunications) $370, graduate tax and telecommunications is $385, and a doctoral degree is $550. This includes registration and all other student fees. Tuition is raised once a year on July 1 about 4 to 7 percent but stays the same for the entire year according to Fyfe. Financial aid and deferred payment plans are available.For more information on GGU or to receive a schedule of classes call the Los Altos campus at (415) 961-3000.

Pat Millar

Pat Millar has not only been appointed as a delegate to the California Republican Central Committee by Congressman Tom Campbell, but also she is a candidate for the Santa Clara County Republican Central Committee in the March 26 election.All County Central Committee members are mostly elected to the two-year position. They meet once a month to provide support for Republican candidates on the county level. Other duties are getting voters aware of Republican candidates, get voters registered and conduct fund raisers. Members of the committee also provide input into the state committees on policy and platform."I was asked if I would run (for the position) by a group of people," Millar, a 22 year resident of Los Altos, said. "They wanted someone in that position with my perspective...a moderate Republican. Someone who provides reinforcement of the attitudes and is socially progressive."Along with her progressive viewpoint, Millar previously served as a member of the State Committee from 1992 to 1994, appointed by former California State Senator Becky Morgan."There are fourteen people running for the six positions," Millar said. "My political background gives a practical twist to me being in the position along with being fiscally conservative."

Alan Swanson

Growing up in Santa Clara Valley has allowed Alan Swanson to become acquainted with the residents of the county; now he would like to put his knowledge to good use.Swanson is running to be on the County Central Committee for Santa Clara County and has experience in the position. Currently he is an alternate member on the committee for Assemblyman Jim Cuneen."I'm seeking an elected position instead of an alternate," Swanson said. He was born and raised in this county he has lived in Los Altos for the past 10 years. In 1974 he was the treasurer for U.S. Senator Hiyakawa."I hope to bring the ability I have to gather people who can agree on things. Many times there are different views on subjects," he said. "I work with people on subjects they agree upon."I have a passion for getting people involved in the political process, regardless of their party," Swanson said. "Rather than being a critic I feel it is better to get involved."

Next challenge for Bruno: A seat on the SCV water b

Byron Sher / Patrick Shannon

Sher, 67, a longtime Stanford law professor and respected Democrat, has been hit hard by the young Republican¹s campaign. The 31-year-old Shannon, a former aide for Pete Wilson, brought Sher¹s longstanding integrity into question when he accused Sher of using his state Assembly offices for political purposes. Sher confirmed a staff member made a mistake by using committee computers to produce campaign materials, a violation of Assembly rules.

mark o¹connor / barbara koppel / joe simitian

Alan Swanson

Koppel/Simitian

Los Altans running for Election 96

Candidates Forum

March ballot propositions

Proposition 193 ­ Property Appraisal. Exception. Grandparent-grandchild transfer. Legislative Constitutional Amendment.Amends state Constitution by not requiring new appraisal of real property upon purchase or transfer between grandparents and their grandchild. Subject to certain conditions. Argument for: Corrects a glitch in the current property tax law where government reassesses the tax rate on property transferred from grandparents to grandchildren.Argument against: The measure further increases the unfairness of the property tax system

Laliotis runs unopposed in March 26 primary

Libby Lucas

Libby Lucas, 30-year Los Altos resident, is running for the Santa Clara Valley Water District this March 26 and hopes to make an impact."I want to improve our water resource capabilities and gain better flood control," Lucas said.Lucas is currently the director of the Guadalupe-Coyote Resource Conservation District, and she represents district 5 on the Los Gatos Creek Streamside Park Committee. She has also worked on school site and general plan review committees, Los Altos Parks and Recreation Commission and the Santa Clara County Trails and Pathways citizen advisory committee."Working with the natural forces of nature and keeping the existence of streams are optimal ways to control water resources and flood control with a low cost," she said. "Environmental preservation is essential for a balanced ecological diversity and quality of life in this Valley."

Alan Swanson

Growing up in Santa Clara Valley has allowed Alan Swanson to become acquainted with the residents of the county; now he would like to put his knowledge to good use.Swanson is running to be on the County Central Committee for Santa Clara County and has experience in the position. Currently he is an alternate member on the committee for Assemblyman Jim Cuneen."I'm seeking an elected position instead of an alternate," Swanson said. He was born and raised in this county he has lived in Los Altos for the past 10 years. In 1974 he was the treasurer for U.S. Senator Hiyakawa."I hope to bring the ability I have to gather people who can agree on things. Many times there are different views on subjects," he said. "I work with people on subjects they agree upon."I have a passion for getting people involved in the political process, regardless of their party," Swanson said. "Rather than being a critic I feel it is better to get involved."

Candidates Forum

Libby Lucas

Libby Lucas, 30-year Los Altos resident, is running for the Santa Clara Valley Water District this March 26 and hopes to make an impact."I want to improve our water resource capabilities and gain better flood control," Lucas said.Lucas is currently the director of the Guadalupe-Coyote Resource Conservation District, and she represents district 5 on the Los Gatos Creek Streamside Park Committee. She has also worked on school site and general plan review committees, Los Altos Parks and Recreation Commission and the Santa Clara County Trails and Pathways citizen advisory committee."Working with the natural forces of nature and keeping the existence of streams are optimal ways to control water resources and flood control with a low cost," she said. "Environmental preservation is essential for a balanced ecological diversity and quality of life in this Valley."